Some good news regarding Covid-19
By Jim & Jan Youngquist

[April 09, 2020]   While Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has been preparing for the crest of covid-19 hospitalizations by arranging for beds, apparatus and caretakers, it is unknown when that peak might happen. Illinoisians are urged to continue practicing preventive measures, particularly social distancing, staying home, washing hands and wearing face masks when you do go out.

While nerves may be getting frayed from the change in daily modus operenda and concerns for health and finance, some legitimately good news is on the horizon.

First, Logan County has kept counts low at only two confirmed infections. Both were detected in the last few days and have a workplace relationship that does not involve the general public. We pray for their full recovery and for their families.

Everyone is urged to continue to stay home when you can and practice social distancing and take other biologically protective measures if you must go out.

On Tuesday one bit of good news came out that the FDA approved the first Rapid Antibody Test for Covid-19. In 12-15 minutes this device can detect from a couple drops of your blood if you have already had virus. Additionally, word has it that some other manufacturers have submitted a home device that will do the antibody test with your cell phone in about the same amount of time and the FDA is expected to approve that device within the next two months.

The big deal about the antibody test is that we will have real information about who has recovered from covid, a really valuable bit of information. Those who have recovered are those who now have some resistance and immunity to future infection.

The third bit of good news: insider information says that a covid -19 vaccine is scheduled to be submitted to the FDA for fast track approval by the end of April 2020. Immunization against covid -19 would prevent you from getting this virus and end the world-wide lockdown. Other countries are already dispensing vaccines, which, if effective, will bring this virus under control.

Expect that in coming days we will have some trials here in Logan County, but it is good to know that the action plan from this siege is being written. We're all in this together!